An apparatus for use in an automated optical inspection in a production line, the apparatus including a frame accommodating a plurality of illumination units surrounding an integrated optical imaging unit, wherein each illumination unit is rotatable in a synchronized manner relative to each unit, in use, to vary an illumination angle at an intended target, to enhance the visualization of the intended target captured by the optical imaging unit.
Legal claims defining the scope of protection, as filed with the USPTO.
2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein each illumination unit includes a bar light comprising a plurality of light emitting diodes.
3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the gears are interchangeable with magnetic gears for non-contact driving, or with a belt driving mechanism.
4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein each illumination unit rotates at an angle from 0 to 90 degrees.
5. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the illumination units can be triggered separately with individual switches for each illumination unit.
6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the optical imaging unit comprises a digital camera integrated with a varifocal lens positioned at the centre of the apparatus for adjusting focus on the intended target.
7. The apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the varifocal lens includes a liquid lens, motorised focusing lens or vibration resonance technology, such that the optical imaging unit is able to perform auto focusing of the intended target.
8. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the apparatus is adapted for mounting to a multi-axis robot by means of a robot end effector.
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June 15, 2021
December 27, 2022
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